ReportWire

Tag: COLUMBUS

  • Central Ohio Drug Task Force seizes $800,000 of fentanyl

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Central Ohio Major Drug Interdiction Task Force had one of its largest fentanyl busts this week in Madison County. 

    The task force seized 44 pounds of the synthetic opioid, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced.

    “This is 44 pounds of agony and devastation that will never reach our communities,” Yost said. “Our task forces are hard at work every day, thwarting traffickers and choking off the supply of these lethal drugs.”

    The fentanyl was valued at $800,000 on Wednesday through an ongoing investigation by the task force, operating under the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission. The investigation also resulted in charges against two people. 

    Throughout 2025, the commission’s major drug task forces seized 86 pounds of fentanyl statewide. 

    The Central Ohio Major Drug Interdiction Task Force includes the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Gahanna Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, U.S. Postal Inspector, IRS, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations

    Those charged in the case are being prosecuted by the Madison County Prosecutor’s Office.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Women’s Top 25 roundup: No. 8 Michigan downs No. 13 Ohio State in OT

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    (Photo credit: Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

    Olivia Olson scored a career-high 31 points and hit the game-winning jumper as No. 8 Michigan edged No. 13 Ohio State 88-86 in overtime in a Big Ten classic in Columbus, Ohio.

    Olson also had nine rebounds while Syla Swords added 22 points for the Wolverines (23-5, 14-3 Big Ten), who moved ahead of Iowa for second place in the conference behind UCLA.

    Swords’ 3-pointer with 10 seconds left in regulation seemed to decide it, but a foul by Brooke Daniels with no time left saved the Buckeyes. Jaloni Cambridge (22 points) sank three straight free throws to force the extra session.

    Ohio State (23-6, 12-5) then forged an eight-point lead with 1:40 left in overtime before the Wolverines came all the way back. Macy Brown scored eight straight for Michigan, including two triples, to tie it 86-all with 15 seconds remaining and set up Olson’s game-winner.

    No. 11 TCU 83, Cincinnati 70

    Marta Suarez exploded for a career-best 32 points and added nine rebounds and four steals as the Big 12-leading Horned Frogs controlled the host Bearcats.

    With her team trailing 29-23 at half, Suarez went to work, scoring 15 in the third quarter and 11 in the fourth as TCU (26-4, 14-3) outscored Cincinnati 60-41 over that stretch. Donovyn Hunter added 16, Olivia Miles had 15 and Kennedy Basham grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds.

    Mya Perry scored 27 points and Caliyah DeVillasee added 20 for Cincinnati (11-18, 6-11).

    No. 14 Maryland 79, Northwestern 57

    Oluchi Okananwa scored 25 points and the Terrapins never trailed in a comfortable Big Ten win over the Wildcats in College Park, Md.

    Maryland (23-6, 11-6) forced 21 turnovers, turning those into 24 points in a game played primarily in the paint. The Terrapins outscored their opponent 54-38 down low.

    Northwestern (8-20, 2-15) had a lone double-digit scorer, Grace Sullivan, who had 23. Maryland countered with Okananwa, Yarden Garzon (11), Addi Mack (10) and Kyndal Walker (10).

    No. 17 West Virginia 74, UCF 62

    A dominant 31-9 third quarter propelled the Mountaineers past the Knights in Orlando, Fla.

    West Virginia (23-6, 13-4) shot 13 of 17 from the field in the third period, including a perfect 3 of 3 from 3-point range, in seizing a 56-36 advantage going into the fourth.

    Gia Cooke led the Mountaineers with 19 points. Jordan Harrison added 16. UCF (10-18, 2-15) was paced by Khyala Ngodu’s 21 points and Kristol Ayson’s 12.

    Kansas 68, No. 20 Texas Tech 59

    S’Mya Nichols notched 19 points by going 15 of 17 at the free-throw line, and the Jayhawks upset the Lady Raiders in Lawrence, Kan.

    The teams were tied with 3:29 to play, before Kansas (18-11, 8-9) outscored Texas Tech 12-3 down the stretch. Reserve Laia Conesa topped things off with the final five points on a 3-pointer and two made free throws.

    Texas Tech (24-6, 11-6) was outscored 24-5 at the charity stripe. Sarengbe Sanogo was the team’s top scorer with 16 points.

    –Field Level Media

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  • Shelter opens in Delaware as winter returns

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    DELAWARE, Ohio — While warmer temperatures made a brief appearance last week, winter has returned to Ohio with cold and snow. 

    In Delaware, A Place of Warmth at Zion is opening its shelter Monday night amid freezing temperatures.

    A Place of Warmth at Zion runs a warming center for single men experiencing homelessness and is located at the Zion Church, 51 W. Central Avenue in Delaware at the corner of Franklin Street and Central Avenue.

    The center is activated when temperatures are predicted to drop to 20 degrees or below. Guests will be accepted from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and may stay until 8 a.m. the following morning.  

    Others seeking sheltering options, or in need of additional information or assistance, can contact  HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc. by dialing 211.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Ohio State opens new University Hospital, moves several patients

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State University announced the opening of the new Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center on Feb. 22.

    What You Need To Know

    • Over 400 patients have already been moved into over 800 private rooms at the 520 W. 10th Ave. location in Columbus

    • The hospital will offer care across a range of specialities, including surgery, neurology, neurosurgery, critical care and adult organ transplant

    • It the 10th largest building in Columbus

    Over 400 patients have already been moved into over 800 private rooms at the 520 W. 10th Ave. location in Columbus.

    The hospital will offer care across a range of specialities, including surgery, neurology, neurosurgery, critical care and adult organ transplant.

    “Thousands of people have been working diligently for years to turn our vision for a transformational hospital that improves lives across Ohio, the nation and the world into a reality,” said Ohio State president Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “Today is about so much more than opening a building. It’s about honoring our land-grant mission by delivering life-changing patient care, advancing innovative research and providing high-quality education for generations to come.”

    The hospital is the largest facility constructed by Ohio State and the largest single-facility project opening in the U.S. in 2026. It is 1.9 million square feet and 26 stories, making it the 10th largest building in Columbus.

    “Medicine today and in the future is about teamwork and collaboration, and our hospital design reinforces our efforts to coalesce as a team around patients and their loved ones, prioritizing their needs and optimizing their health care journey,” said John J. Warner, MD, CEO of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and executive vice president at Ohio State. “University Hospital is a place where innovation and transformation will enable caregivers, researchers and educators to drive high-impact discoveries that translate to improvements in patient care, while also providing outstanding clinical education to the next generation of health care professionals.”

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    Ryan Johnston

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  • Bitcoin Liquidity Battles Heat Up As Demand Shows First Positive Print

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    Bitcoin remains range-bound as liquidity clears on both sides, keeping price action indecisive. After months of weakness, demand has finally turned positive, hinting that selling is easing and structural accumulation may be returning.

    BTC Stays Range-Bound Amid Active Liquidity Clearing

    Bitcoin remains locked in a range-bound state, characterized by a lack of directional commitment. Currently, the price is actively engaged in clearing liquidity on both sides of the spread. This creates a market environment where expansion is met with selling pressure, while price dips are swiftly absorbed by buyers, trapping the asset in a tug-of-war.

    Related Reading

    According to Columbus, market liquidity remains exceptionally well-defined both above and below the current price levels. This structure reinforces the ongoing choppy environment, as the market seems content to bounce between established pockets of orders. In such a scenario, the data suggests that patience is the most valuable asset for traders.

    Source: Chart from Columbus on X

    From this juncture, the market’s trajectory depends on how it reacts after the nearby liquidity is purged. If Bitcoin begins to find acceptance above the current range following a liquidity sweep, the probability shifts toward a bullish expansion, triggering a move into higher upside pockets.

    Conversely, if the attempt to gain acceptance fails after a sweep, the market remains vulnerable to further downside. This could result in additional sweeping of lower liquidity levels before any sustained recovery can materialize. Until then, the prevailing goal remains a technical clean-up of liquidity before the next major trend is established.

    Bitcoin Demand Turns Positive After Months Of Weakness

    CryptosRus recently highlighted that after nearly three months of persistent weakness, Bitcoin’s apparent demand has finally turned back above zero, currently sitting around +1,200 BTC. This marks a notable shift in investors’ sentiment and action in a market struggling with heightened volatility. 

    Related Reading

    Back in December, demand had bottomed near -154,000 BTC, a quantity that helps explain the sluggish price action that persisted in the following weeks. Since then, the pressure has been quietly easing. Selling activity is slowing, and structural accumulation is beginning to re-emerge, signaling a potential shift in market dynamics.

    It’s important to understand what this metric represents, which is whether long-term holders are absorbing new supply. When demand is deeply negative, the market tends to struggle. Conversely, when the metric turns positive, it suggests that buying activity is rebuilding, creating conditions for a healthier market structure.

    That said, the market is not out of the woods yet. A single positive print does not confirm a trend reversal. However, if this recovery in demand persists, it is often one of the earliest indicators that the market is transitioning from a distribution phase back toward accumulation, setting the stage for potential sustained strength in the weeks ahead.

    Bitcoin
    BTC trading at $68,212 on the 1D chart | Source: BTCUSDT on Tradingview.com

    Featured image from Pixabay, chart from Tradingview.com

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    Godspower Owie

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  • U.S. pays tribute to Gaudreau brothers at the Winter Olympics

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    MILAN — Johnny Gaudreau was working hard to make the U.S. team heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics. He and brother Matthew Gaudreau watched the event growing up, always with eyes on playing in it.

    “It was their dream,” Jane Gaudreau said of her sons.

    What You Need To Know

    • The U.S. men’s hockey team will play for gold against Canada, and it has honored Johnny Gaudreau’s memory along the way

    • Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau died on Aug. 29, 2024, when an SUV hit them as they rode bikes in New Jersey

    • Team officials say Johnny Gaudreau would have been on this roster
    • A blue No. 13 jersey hangs in the locker room near Matthew Gaudreau’s No. 21. Teammates say it keeps them close

    Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau died on Aug. 29, 2024, when they were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles near their hometown in New Jersey on the eve of their sister’s wedding. Their deaths shocked the hockey community, and they have been honored since with retired numbers, a memorial 5K and more.

    An elite player a decade into his NHL career and the all-time U.S. leading scorer in international play, Johnny Gaudreau was on track to be in Milan for the tournament that wraps up Sunday when the Americans play rival Canada for the gold medal. His father, Guy Gaudreau, said USA Hockey was gracious enough to tell the family their oldest son was on the projected roster.

    “He wanted to be on this team,” Guy Gaudreau said during the third period of the U.S. semifinal win on Friday night. “And it would’ve been nice if he’d been here.”

    The U.S. is honoring the Gaudreau brothers with a tribute to them in their locker room at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. A blue No. 13 jersey hangs there as a reminder of the player known as “Johnny Hockey,” who was beloved by so many on the national team and beyond.

    “It means everything — we all know he should be here with us,” said Dylan Larkin, who played with Johnny Gaudreau at multiple world championships. “He should be with us. We love him, and I like that we continue to think about him and I wouldn’t imagine it any other way.”

    Jane and Guy Gaudreau, along with Johnny’s widow, Meredith Gaudreau, and their two oldest children arrived in Milan on Friday. The Gaudreau parents had been planning a trip to Las Vegas and initially hesitated after USA Hockey invited them to attend.

    “Our two daughters, for 24 hours, they just kept at us: ‘You have to go. The boys would want you to do this. This would mean so much to John,’” Jane Gaudreau said. “It just means so much to our family, and we’re so excited to remember what our boys meant to hockey.”

    The Gaudreau family connections to players on the roster run deep, from Boston College to the NHL. In addition to the world championships, Johnny Gaudreau played with Noah Hanifin on the Calgary Flames and Zach Werenski on the Columbus Blue Jackets.

    “Johnny was close to a lot of guys in that room,” Hanifin said. “We know he’d be here with us, so we’ve been thinking about him and carrying him with us.”


    Werenski said after he and his teammates advanced to the final that Meredith Gaudreau reached out to his wife a few days earlier to let them know they were coming.

    “It’s great having them here, and it’s super special,” Werenski said. “We’re happy that we made it to the gold-medal game, so they can watch that and be a part of it. It’s on us to make them proud.”

    Not that it would have been much of a debate, but coach Mike Sullivan confirmed what management told the Gaudreaus: Johnny Gaudreau would have been on the team if he were still alive, based on his body of work and how well he has played in a U.S. uniform.

    “He was one of America’s very best,” Sullivan said. “He’s just a good person on the ice and off the ice, and I think he’s an inspiration to our players to this very day.”

    Players still talk about Johnny Gaudreau, and “all the stories are funny,” according to Charlie McAvoy, who played alongside him at worlds.

    “Just an amazing person, just an infectious personality,” McAvoy said. “The detail, really, with our staff and our equipment staff especially to make sure that he’s always with us, little reminders of him in the room, and they just go a long way. You always see them. They’re just gentle. They’re right there. But we know that he’s always with us.”

    Along with Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey is that number on the wall alongside Matthew Gaudreau’s No. 21. It’s similar to what USA Hockey did a year ago at the 4 Nations Face-Off, when Guy Gaudreau took part in practice as a guest coach.

    This would have been Johnny Gaudreau’s first chance to play at the Olympics after the NHL did not participate in 2018 and 2022. But it almost certainly won’t be the last time his jersey hangs in the U.S. locker room at the game, a tradition that could continue for years to come.

    “I hope so,” Larkin said. “I sure hope so.”

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Inaugural uniforms revealed for Columbus Aviators

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — While football may seem far away, the UFL is gearing up for its season with Columbus’ inaugural team unveiling its new uniforms.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Columbus Aviators are preparing for the 2026 UFL season with uniforms that reflect “the Aviators’ spirit to ‘challenge, innovate and conquer the unimaginable’”

    • The uniforms are navy to reflect Ohio’s air and space trailblazers with white accents

    • The uniforms will debut with the team March 29 as the Aviators take on the Orlando Storm at 8 p.m.

    The Columbus Aviators are preparing for the 2026 season with uniforms that reflect “the Aviators’ spirit to ‘challenge, innovate and conquer the unimaginable.’”

    These uniforms are navy to reflect Ohio’s air and space trailblazers with white accents. The team’s helmets are blue to reflect open skies, and side pant striping symbolizes the constant forward motion. 

    (UFL)

    NOBULL, a footwear and apparel company, is the Exclusive Training Footwear Partner of the UFL and will be the official jersey patch partner for all eight teams. New Era, an international sports and lifestyle brand, will be the official jersey and headwear partner. Adidas, a multinational athletic apparel and footwear manufacturer, will serve as the footwear partner, providing game-day shoes and gloves.

    The uniforms will debut with the team March 29 as the Aviators take on the Orlando Storm at 8 p.m. Columbus’ home opener is set for April 3 at 11 a.m. at Crew Stadium against the DC Defenders. 

    (UFL)

    The UFL’s season kicks off March 27. The league consists of eight teams, including the Birmingham Stallions, Columbus Aviators, Dallas Renegades, DC Defenders, Houston Gamblers, Louisville Kings, Orlando Storm and St. Louis Battlehawks.

    For more information or to purchase tickets to a UFL game, click here.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Thomas, Lewis help No. 15 Virginia beat Ohio State 70-66 in Nashville

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    NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Malik Thomas and Sam Lewis each scored 13 points and No. 15 Virginia beat Ohio State 70-66 on Saturday night at Bridgestone Arena in the Nashville Hoops Showdown.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Cavaliers (22-3) extended their winning streak to six.

    • Bruce Thornton scored 28 points for Ohio State (16-9).

    • He also had an assist, the 500th of his career.

    The Cavaliers (22-3) extended their winning streak to six.

    Bruce Thornton scored 28 points for Ohio State (16-9). He also had an assist, the 500th of his career.

    Amare Bynum had 15 points and six rebounds for the Buckeyes in their latest nonconference game in nearly 40 years.

    It was tied at 37 at the half, with Virginia erasing an early Ohio State lead

    Ohio State opened up a six-point lead with under 10 minutes remaining, but the Cavaliers had a 6-0 run to tie it.

    With just over a minute remaining, Lewis forced a turnover and then went the length of the floor for a layup to give Virginia a 65-61 lead. He then hit a pair of free throws with 11 seconds left to put the game out of reach.

    Prior to the game, Ohio State said John Mobley Jr. will be sidelined indefinitely due to a hand injury sustained Wednesday night against Southern California. Mobley started the Buckeyes’ first 24 games, averaging 15.1 points.

    The Cavaliers are 10-2 away from home, including 3-1 in neutral-site games.

    Up next

    Ohio State: Hosts Wisconsin on Tuesday night.

    Virginia: At Georgia Tech on Wednesday night.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Crews contain fire at Columbus airport storage hangar Friday morning

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — In the early hours of Friday morning, crews responded to a fire at a storage hangar at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport.

    What You Need To Know

    • Crews contained a fire early Friday morning at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport

    • The fire was at a storage hangar

    • A firefighter was injured during the response
    • An investigation is ongoing as to the fire’s cause and the extent of the damage

    According to the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, crews from Columbus, Whitehall and Mifflin Township managed to contain the situation at 575 North Hamilton Road just before 6:30 a.m.

    The release confirms that a firefighter suffered minor injuries while responding to the fire.

    They said an investigation into the cause of the fire, and the damage it caused, is ongoing. However, they said it seems unoccupied office space took the brunt of the damage.

    “We are incredibly grateful for the swift and professional response of our firefighters and our emergency partners,” said Daren Griffin, president and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, in a news release. “Their efforts helped contain the fire quickly and prevented any impact on airport operations. Our thoughts are with the firefighter who sustained minor injuries during the response, and we wish him a full and fast recovery. The safety of our team, passengers, and community remain our highest priority.”

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    Cody Thompson

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  • 41 employees to be affected by Saks Fifth Ave closure in Polaris

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — As a result of Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring, 41 employees at Saks Fifth Avenue in Polaris are losing their jobs. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The operator of Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus said that it will close eight Saks Fifth Avenue stores as well as its Neiman Marcus Boston store

    • The goal is to focus on its most profitable businesses
    • All employees at the Polaris location will be let go between April 11 to April 30

    The operator of Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus said that it will close eight Saks Fifth Avenue stores as well as its Neiman Marcus Boston store as it focuses on its most profitable businesses and pares down debt.

    Among the cities affected by the closures include Columbus. 

    The entire Polaris facility is set to close, and all employees will be let go between April 11 to April 30. The closure is expected to be permanent, according to a WARN Notice. 

    Saks Global also said Tuesday it will be winding down 14 standalone Fifth Avenue Club personal styling suites on Saturday, though it will keep three standalone sites. It also will close its home site called Horchow.com, a business that Neiman Marcus acquired in the late 1980s. As of Feb. 19, shoppers will be redirected to the home category on NeimanMarcus.com, where they will find the full assortment previously available on Horchow.com.

    The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Red Cross donations go uncollected because of the winter storm

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    OHIO — The Red Cross needs donations after winter storm Fern affected the collection of 20,000 blood donations.

    Over 500 blood drives have been canceled since the beginning of 2026.

    Winter storms have made the transportation of vital blood products, which could affect deliveries to hospitals across Ohio.

    Some hospitals have been forced to cancel elective procedures because of the shortage. Trauma surgeons and doctors could face the possibility that blood could run out, according to the Red Cross.

    You can book an appointment to give blood or platelets by using the Blood Donor App, visiting Red Cross’s website or calling 1-800-733-2767.

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    Ryan Johnston

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  • Snow to fall in southern Ohio Tuesday

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    CINCINNATI — An area of low pressure will pass through the Ohio Valley on Tuesday and bring a round of accumulating snow to parts of the state. Many counties along the Ohio River and generally south of Interstate 70 are under a Winter Weather Advisory.

    What You Need To Know

    • Accumulating snow is likely mainly south of Interstate 70 Tuesday

    • Snow will be most impactful mid-morning through the afternoon

    • Totals of 1-3″ with isolated higher amounts are possible

    Snow will quickly overspread southern Ohio from west to east during the morning hours and will continue through the afternoon, tapering off in most locations before sunset on Tuesday evening.

    Road conditions are expected to deteriorate after the snow starts to fall. This may affect travel on city streets, country roads and area highways for several hours, including the afternoon commute.

    Accumulations will range between 1 and 3 inches in the advisory area. Isolated higher amounts of 4 or 5 inches will be possible in a few spots. Further north, snow totals will taper off to less than 1 inch.

    As temperatures approach the freezing mark by afternoon, road conditions may improve some. Regardless, use caution and give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and leave plenty of space for snowplows and road crews to get their work done.

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    Meteorologist Joe Astolfi

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  • Columbus officials address water main breaks, efforts to repair

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther spoke with media Friday morning about the large number of water main breaks they’ve seen in the city following the recent winter storm and frigid temperatures and what they’re doing to address them.

    What You Need To Know

    • The City of Columbus has seen a number of water main breaks following the winter storm 

    • Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther said the city is at about 60 as of mid-morning on Friday

    • If there’s issues in your neighborhood, they’re encouraged to report them to 311

    “This has probably got to be the greatest number of water main breaks we’ve had in recent memory,” he said.

    The mayor said there were about 60 breaks as of mid-morning Friday across the city. He said this is the next stage in the battle against the recent winter storm.

    “Our snow warriors have done a great job and have been out all week, around the clock, clearing our roads,” he said. “And now, with these frigid temperatures to follow up, we’ve got main breaks.”

    If there’s issues in your neighborhood, he encourages people to report them to 311.

    “We got a frigid weekend ahead of us, so please report them as soon as you notice them, and we’ll get teams out as quickly as possible,” he said. “But this is going to be an ongoing battle for at least the next several days until it warms up a little bit.”

    Based on the forecast, the mayor said there’s going to be even more over the coming days.

    Ginther said, from what he’s heard from the Department of Public Safety, most of the roads in neighborhoods are now passable.

    “I think we’re on our second, third run of the priority three residential areas,” he said. “Obviously, in situations where there’s a water main break, that’s a whole different situation, but my understanding that for the schools the last couple of days, it was more about the frigid temperatures than neighborhood residential areas not being passable.”

    Brian Haemmerle, assistant administrator for Columbus Water & Power Division of Water, confirmed they have six to seven of their own crews working right now as well as two contractors with multiple crews. Each crew, he said, is working to handle about two leaks a day amid the freezing temperatures.

    When prioritizing leaks, they look to determine if it’s an emergency situation, whether people are out of water, whether it’s causing property damage, etc.

    Their goal is to have everything repaired within 14 days. They are working seven days a week.

    “You know, the seasons change, but you know, there are going to be challenges,” Ginther said. “And that’s why I’m so proud of these folks, you know, out here in these temperatures and these conditions, working together, putting our neighbors first. It is a significant challenge, and I’m glad we’ve got some of the country’s best amongst our city workers leading the way.”

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Blue Jackets beat Flyers 5-3 for third straight win

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Charlie Coyle had a goal and an assist and the Columbus Blue Jackets beat the Philadelphia Flyers 5-3 on Wednesday night for their third straight win.

    What You Need To Know

    • Kirill Marchenko, Eric Gudbranson, Sean Monahan and Mathieu Olivier also scored for the Blue Jackets

    • The Blue Jackets have won seven of their last eight games and are tied at 57 points with the Flyers and Capitals for fourth place in the Metropolitan Division

    • Marchenko put the Blue Jackets back in front with 19.3 seconds left in the first, skating four-on-four, before Gudbranson made it 3-1 at 1:57 of the second period

    • The Blue Jackets head to Chicago on Friday night

    Kirill Marchenko, Eric Gudbranson, Sean Monahan and Mathieu Olivier also scored for the Blue Jackets to offset a hat trick by Philadelphia’s Travis Konecny.

    Elvis Merzlikins stopped 24 shots for Columbus and Zach Werenski had two assists, giving him 35 points in his last 21 home games.

    The Blue Jackets have won seven of their last eight games and are tied at 57 points with the Flyers and Capitals for fourth place in the Metropolitan Division.

    Konecny’s hat trick was the third of his career and Dan Vladar made 26 saves in his first start after missing six games with a lower-body injury. Rasmus Ristolainen left with a lower-body injury in the first period and did not return in the Flyers’ second straight loss.

    Coyle gave Columbus the lead 38 seconds into the game before Konecny pulled Philadelphia even at 9:03.

    Marchenko put the Blue Jackets back in front with 19.3 seconds left in the first, skating four-on-four, before Gudbranson made it 3-1 at 1:57 of the second period, with his first goal of the season and a league-leading 39th by a Blue Jackets defenseman.

    Konecny pulled Philadelphia within a goal at 4:08 of the third period and completed his hat trick at 4:46 to tie it. His 38 points against Columbus are the most he has against any NHL team.

    Monahan put Columbus back in front to stay with 3:28 left in the third, and Olivier sealed the win with an empty-netter with 1:06 remaining.

    Up next

    Flyers: Visit Boston on Thursday night.

    Blue Jackets: Visit Chicago on Friday night.

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    Associated Press

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  • Winter storm postpones Blue Jackets’ game against Kings

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The NHL postponed the Columbus Blue Jackets’ home game against the Los Angeles Kings on Monday night because of a major winter storm that created dangerous travel conditions across much of the United States.

    What You Need To Know

    • Almost a foot of snow fell in Columbus, Ohio
    • The game is rescheduled for March 9 in Columbus

    • Wind chills are also making temperatures dangerous

    Almost a foot of snow fell in Columbus, Ohio, and windchill factors were forecast to be around minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday night. The game is rescheduled for March 9 in Columbus.

    The NBA postponed games in Memphis and Milwaukee on Sunday because of the storm.

    The Dallas Mavericks tried twice to fly to Milwaukee for their Sunday night game against the Bucks, but conditions didn’t allow it. A decision to postpone was announced a few hours before tipoff. Food that had been prepared for the game was donated to shelters in the Milwaukee area.

    Earlier Sunday, a game between the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies was postponed about three hours before tipoff.

    Reschedule dates were not announced.

    The NBA also changed the start times for two games on Monday: Philadelphia 76ers at Charlotte Hornets tipped off at 3 p.m. ET instead of 7 p.m., and the Indiana Pacers at Atlanta Hawks at 1:30 p.m. instead of 7:30 p.m.

    The Memphis area was experiencing a mixture of snow, sleet and freezing rain that began falling early Saturday morning and continued Sunday morning. South and east of Memphis, freezing rain collected on power lines and trees, causing widespread outages and blocked roads. Authorities had recommended people stay off the streets as the wintry mix and frigid temperatures caused a refreeze.

    The Nuggets said they planned to fly out at some point Sunday, depending on the conditions at Memphis International Airport. They are scheduled to play at home Tuesday against the Detroit Pistons.

    The Grizzlies are scheduled to be in Houston for a game against the Rockets on Monday.

    An NBA G League game scheduled for Monday between the Memphis Hustle and Stockton Kings in Southaven, Mississippi, was postponed and rescheduled for Feb. 19.

    At least two college women’s basketball games were postponed: No. 17 Tennessee’s visit to No. 18 Mississippi on Monday and Tulane’s visit to Memphis on Tuesday. Reschedule dates were not announced.

    In men’s basketball, a game featuring Tennessee at No. 21 Georgia was pushed back a day from Tuesday to Wednesday. Purdue Fort Wayne and IU Indianapolis, and Southern Illinois and Evansville had Sunday games postponed without make-up dates announced.

    The schedule changes come after dozens of games were moved around last week in anticipation of the storm.

    Separately, on Saturday, the NBA postponed a game between the Warriors and Timberwolves to “prioritize the safety and security of the Minneapolis community” after the fatal shooting of a man by a federal officer in a district located less than two miles away from where the Timberwolves play.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • $245,000 to go toward improving maternal, infant health outcomes in Ohio

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation announced it has recently awarded $245,000 in grants across Ohio to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

    What You Need To Know

    • More than one in 10 babies in the state were born early in 2024

    • The state’s infant mortality rate is also 7.2 deaths per 1,000 births, which is well above the national average of 5.6

    • The funding is going toward programming at four organizations

    According to the March of Dimes, more than one in 10 babies in the state were born early in 2024, which put Ohio at 37th place for pre-term births. 

    The state’s infant mortality rate is also 7.2 deaths per 1,000 births, which is well above the national average of 5.6. Babies born to Black mothers have rates nearly twice as high. 

    “Maternal Health Awareness Day on Jan. 23 is an important reminder that too many women in Ohio still face barriers to safe, healthy pregnancies,” said Michelle Stoughton, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in Ohio. “Through these grants, we’re investing in community-based organizations that are closing health gaps—from housing instability and substance use disorder to access to perinatal and postpartum care—so families can get the support they need at every stage of their journey.”

    The funding will support programming at four organizations across the state: 

    • Community Development for All People (Columbus) for its Thrive to 5 program
    • Community Shelter Board (Columbus) for its Homelessness Prevention Program for Expectant Mothers
    • First Step Home (Cincinnati) for its Maternal Addiction Program
    • Pregnant With Possibilities Resource Center (Cleveland) for its 13-week Making Opportunities Matter (M.O.M.) Program

    “Addressing maternal and infant health challenges depends on strong partnerships and continued investment,” said Stoughton. “By supporting these organizations, we’re helping build healthier starts and stronger futures for families across Ohio.”

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Filings: Insanity defense set Osceola triple homicide suspect free in 2021 case

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    KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Court documents show that a man charged with killing three men in Osceola County over the weekend was charged with attempted murder in 2021, but was released when a judge found him not guilty by reason of insanity.

    Ahmad Jihad Bojeh, 29, has been charged in the shooting deaths of Douglas Kraft, of Columbus, Ohio, Robert Kraft, of Holland, Mich., and James Puchan, of Galena, Ohio, just after noon on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ahmad Jihad Bojeh, 29, has been charged in the shooting deaths of Douglas Kraft, of Columbus, Ohio, Robert Kraft, of Holland, Mich., and James Puchan, of Galena, Ohio, just after noon on Saturday
    • The men’s families said they were in town for a car show and were shot and killed while they waited for assistance with their rental car

    • Court records show that Bojeh was charged with attempted murder in 2021, but was found not guilty by reason of insanity
    • State Attorney Monique Worrell responded in a statement after Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier criticized her handling of the 2021 case, saying “the court, not the prosecutor, determined the outcome”

    In a joint statement Tuesday, family members of the men said they were getting ready to travel home after attending a car show in Kissimmee, and had been waiting for help with their rental car when they were killed.

    Investigators with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office said the shooting happened outside a residence in the Indian Hill subdivision near Kissimmee. They said Bojeh was quickly located after the shooting and has been charged with three counts of premeditated murder. Sheriff’s Office officials have not released any information on a possible motive for the killings.

    Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, though, noted that Bojeh was free despite being charged with attempted murder in 2021. In that case, a judge found Bojeh’s insanity defense compelling and found him not guilty on Dec. 20, 2022. 

    He criticized State Attorney Monique Worrell’s handling of the 2021 case, saying in a post on X: “It appears she didn’t put up a fight to Bojeh’s use of the insanity defense, and he was allowed to go free.”

    Circuit Court Judge Keith Carsten ordered Bojeh to be released on Dec. 21, 2022, as long as he fulfilled conditions, which included getting mental health treatment and complying with all treatment recommendations — including taking prescribed medication — not owning or having access to firearms, and having no contact with the victims or witnesses in the case.

    According to court filings in Saturday’s triple-homicide case, investigators reported finding two handguns hidden under Bojeh’s bed at a residence in the 200 block of Indian Point Circle.

    A filing from his attorney in 2024 shows that after his acquittal, Bojeh was ordered into the Ninth Judicial Circuit’s Problem Solving Courts, which, according to the court’s website, “coordinates with judiciary, criminal justice entities, and treatment providers to address the participant’s underlying issues contributing to their criminal behavior. This is achieved through targeted and supportive services while also holding participants responsible for their actions.”

    Few details were released following the verdict, but in a 2023 filing, a mental health specialist told the court that Bojeh “has attended his psychiatric appointments and has been compliant with taking his medications as prescribed. He has acquired employment at McDonald’s and (is) happy with his job. He attends his appointments with me. He is always on time and has not missed any appointments.”

    Filings from Aug. 15, 2023, and March 12, 2024, indicate he was in compliance with court requirements associated with the case.

    In response to Uthmeier’s accusations, Worrell released the following statement:

    “The Attorney General’s claim shows he fundamentally misunderstands both the facts and the law. This case was fully litigated at trial — where the court, not the prosecutor, determined the outcome after hearing evidence and expert testimony.

    Suggesting that a prosecutor failed to ‘put up a fight’ because a judge ruled a defendant incompetent reflects a fundamental lack of understanding of how the criminal legal system works. Prosecutors argue cases within the confines of the law. Judges decide them.

    The fact that someone running to be the state’s top attorney would seek to politicize the tragic deaths of three people is shameful and further evidence that he is unfit for the role of Attorney General. Prosecutors are obligated to follow the law, not manufacture outcomes to satisfy political narratives. Undermining judicial decisions for political gain weakens public trust in the justice system and disrespects the victims and their families.

    I remain committed to having a serious conversation on how we can address the real issues — and that would be the inadequacies in how the system responds to offenses involving people with severe mental illness, not on misrepresenting court proceedings for political attention.”

    Family Speaks Out

    In their joint statement, family members of victims of Saturday’s triple homicide in Osceola County were described as “beloved husbands, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers and friends.”

    “These three wonderful men did not deserve this,” the statement said. “Our families are left with an unexpected, unimaginable loss that cannot be put into words. We ask for privacy, prayers, and respect as we mourn and begin to process this tragedy.

    “We are grateful for the outpouring of concern and for the quick response efforts of local law enforcement, the detectives, the medical examiners, and the various state agencies who are assisting with this investigation. Further details will be shared by our families or official representatives when appropriate. For now, please respect our need for space and time to grieve.”

    Osceola County Sheriff Christopher Blackmon said the investigation into the shootings is ongoing.

    “There is no threat to the community, as a suspect of these horrific and senseless murders and been caught and arrested by Osceola County deputies,” he said in a statement.

    Bojeh is currently being held without bond at the Osceola County Jail. 

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    Mark Boxley

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  • Central Ohio receives millions in funding for road safety

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Federal funding will go toward the proposed Coalition for Integrated Road User Safety (CIRUS) planning initiative sweeping central Ohio for road safety improvements. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) and the Central Ohio Rural Planning Organization (CORPO) will be awarded $4.8 million in funds

    • CIRUS is a three-year, $6 million public-private partnership that aims to raise roadway safety across central Ohio

    • CORPO roadways are in Fairfield, Knox, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Pickaway and Union counties

    The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) and the Central Ohio Rural Planning Organization (CORPO) will be awarded $4.8 million in funds for the initiative. 

    “MORPC is excited to partner with the Ohio Department of Transportation, Honda, Transportation Research Center, the Ohio State University, and many other stakeholders to improve roadway safety throughout Central Ohio. Central Ohio’s seven-county rural area is projected to add more than 130,000 residents and 47,000 new jobs over the next 25 years,” said Parag Agrawal, Chief Mobility Officer for MORPC. “With so many additional residents using the region’s roadways, prioritizing and improving transportation safety is vital. CIRUS will promote regional coordination, and will focus on Safer Roads, Safer Speeds, Safer Vehicles and Post-Crash Care.” 

    CIRUS is a three-year, $6 million public-private partnership that aims to raise roadway safety across central Ohio. The initiative focuses on seven rural counties and is part of larger safety efforts across the region. it includes road safety audits, evaluation of advanced vehicle safety and identification of high risk corridors. 

    This initiative will be comes a national model for rural transportation safety with a commitment to reducing fatal and serious injury crashes along CORPO roadways.

    Transportation planning products and services in CORPO are being offered via MORPC to Fairfield, Knox, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Pickaway and Union counties

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to host 2026 NWSL Challenge Cup

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Women’s soccer is taking the spotlight in Columbus this summer when the Columbus Crew and ScottsMiracle-Gro Field host the 2026 NWSL Challenge Cup. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The matchup, presented by E.L.F., puts the Kansas City Current against Gotham FC 

    • The NWSL Challenge Cup is an annual super cup competition and showcase of league title winners from the previous year

    • Details about the match, including ticket information, will be announced at a later date

    The matchup, presented by E.L.F., puts the Kansas City Current against Gotham FC on Friday, June 26, at 8 p.m. It is the league’s first game in Columbus since it launched in 2013.

    The NWSL Challenge Cup is an annual super cup competition and showcase of league title winners from the previous year. Gotham FC lifted its second NWSL Championship trophy in the past three seasons last year and the Current claimed this first NWSL Shield with a league-best 21-3-2 record.

    “We’re excited to welcome the NWSL to Columbus for the first time by hosting the NWSL Challenge Cup in June. This event provides another exceptional opportunity for the Crew to celebrate our sport and top athletes across the men’s and women’s game during a truly special year for soccer in our region and country,” said Crew President of Business Operations Mary Shepro. “Thanks to great collaboration with local partners, our world-class facilities and the passion of our fan base, we continue to strengthen Columbus’ reputation as an ideal destination for soccer and major events that have a lasting impact on our sport and community.”

    Details about the match, including ticket information, will be announced at a later date. 

    Fans won’t have to wait until June for some action though as ScottsMiracle-Gro Field will also host the 2026 SheBelieves Cup on March 4. 

    This is the second time in the past three years the cup has come to Columbus, with CONMEBOL’s Argentina and Colombia at 3:30 p.m. and USA facing Canada at 6:45 p.m. 

     

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Ohio congresswoman demands transparency on recent ICE operations

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a letter sent to Kristi Noem, secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Todd Lyons, acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-District 3, expressed concerns with recent ICE activity in central Ohio and called for full transparency.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty sent a letter to the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement expressing concern and asking for transparency on recent ICE operations
    • She said in her letter that these have been “racially targeted raids” and were meant “to strike fear into the immigrant community”

    • Spectrum News 1 has reached out to ICE for comment

    In her letter, Beatty states that at least 214 people in the Columbus area have been detained by ICE since Dec. 17, the majority of whom were Latino or Black, as part of what’s been called Operation Buckeye.

    “These racially targeted raids began right before Christmas as a way to strike fear into the immigrant community and have largely targeted individuals without a criminal record,” her letter reads. “Furthermore, I have serious concerns surrounding the process and legal justification for this ICE operation.”

    The congresswoman notes declines in attendance at local churches and mosques due to fear. She also cited reports that ICE has been “targeting schools with large Hispanic populations.”

    In addition to these concerns, she also states that these operations have caused harm to the local economy as customers are scared to go out and support area businesses.

    Beatty said she is demanding “full transparency regarding the legal basis and the status of those detained.” Specifically, she is requesting the following information:

    1. “The full name, detention facility, and exact location of every individual detained from OH-03 currently in ICE custody;
    2. The legal justification for their detention, including charges, proceedings, case status;
    3. Whether the detainee has a criminal record;
    4. A detailed account of compliance with current law and procedures regarding the conditions in which individuals are being held, including access to medical care, mental health services, food, and legal counsel; and
    5. A full report on whether any complaints have been filed or internal reviews conducted related to racial profiling or discriminatory targeting during recent enforcement operations.”

    Spectrum News 1 has reached out to ICE for comment but has yet to hear back.

    View the full version of the letter here:

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    Cody Thompson

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